Meet The Models

Suzanna LEIGHTON

I came to Future Dreams House for a workshop followed by yoga and ended up staying for a singing session too! I left feeling so uplifted and with this enormous sense of community, warmth and support! Having breast cancer has been brutal and terrifying but Future Dreams has really helped with my healing, regaining hope and getting my old self back. I feel very blessed to have discovered the house. I wanted to take part to celebrate life and feeling whole again after cancer!   

DANI BOND

I took part in the Future Dreams fashion show a few years ago and it was truly one of the most incredible days of my life. My diagnosis 7 years ago, has been a big part of my world and my body and mindset have been forever changed. My friends know me to have zero body confidence and doing a show like this just makes everything fall into perspective.  It’s not about showcasing the wonky, puckered boobs and the scars, it’s about real people just like me, a wife and mum of four boys, helping to find a cure for secondary cancer and making the world of so many people a little brighter with the Future Dreams House.

NEVO BURRELL

I was diagnosed in 2012, and have since volunteered, and worked with women touched by breast cancer to reconnect, reclaim, regain confidence in their bodies, and heal through style. Having done all that, I’d love to experience being styled and pampered! I think it’d be wonderful to have the rounded practice of giving, and receiving.

Jacquie beltrao

Jacquie is a sports presenter and reporter at Sky News where she has been a face of the channel for three decades. She is also a former Olympic gymnast and team GB international. Jacquie was initially diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer on Christmas Eve 2013 and after a mastectomy and chemo thought she’d beaten the disease. It returned as a stage 4 diagnosis in 2020. After 12 more rounds of chemo and other treatment things were looking bleak – nothing was working until she was put on a relatively new drug Olaparib. The results were spectacular and within a few weeks her scans showed no evidence of disease and they’ve stayed that way for the last two years. Jacquie still fronts the sport on the Sky News weekend breakfast show, while enjoying life with husband Eduardo, children Amelia, Tiago and Jorge and two rescue dogs Ted and Lily, dog walking, running and practicing yoga. “Future dreams has become a big part of my life – the team made me feel special and strong when I was going through chemo and was at my most vulnerable. I was the first model for the Future Dreams Melissa Odabash mastectomy range it was very empowering. I appreciate every penny raised by FD that goes to FD house and to research. Without recent research I maybe wouldn’t be here today and I don’t take that for granted – not for a second.”

sienna evans

I am 35 years old with two amazing boys. I was diagnosed in March 2019 with stage 3 grade 3 breast cancer with spread to all lymph nodes, neck and vascular invasion. 

I wanted to do the future dreams fashion show as an act of empowerment to myself and others going through breast cancer. We never asked for the cards we are dealt, the lifelong effects are horrendous and we’re never left the same. BUT we are still beautiful, powerful, magical, and everything in between. 

CHARMAINE MCQUEEN-PRINCE

I’m 47 years old and was diagnosed with stage 2 grade 2 breast cancer ER+Her2- in February 2022. I had chemo and a mastectomy and finished radiotherapy in January 2023. I saw the email for FDH models while on holiday (in the Maldives) and a little tipsy and thought – let’s throw caution to the wind – I’ll never get picked! Having been picked, it gives me the opportunity to give back to FDH for the great services I’ve used, including Black Women Rising, and to prepare the way for future women diagnosed with breast cancer. This is about me, them and us. 

emma campbell

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 and received a secondary diagnosis in 2014. I have targeted chemo every three weeks at the Royal Marsden and will be on treatment for life, but I really do feel like one of the lucky ones. 

My triplets were six months old when I was newly diagnosed and they’re 13 now and their big brother nearly 20. I don’t take a single day of stable, good health for granted and so giving back in some way is incredibly important to me. I love holding monthly writing workshops at Future Dreams House – it’s such a safe, loving and inclusive space. Taking part in the fashion show will be a tad out of my comfort zone but why not? I”ve learnt to say ‘yes’ to life and I want to show those who may be at the start of their cancer journey that they can come through this. Reach out, look for stories of hope and believe in brighter days ahead.   

selena levy

It was a privilege to know Sylvia and Danielle and to volunteer and help out on the Future Dreams committee from the very beginning. The charity had a special place in my heart from the start as I had lost both grandmas and my aunt to this cruel disease. Over 10 years ago, my life dramatically changed when I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 42. It was a very scary time for me, my husband and my children aged 12 and 9 years old. Thankfully I was incredibly lucky and had amazing support from my wonderful family and friends. I know from my own experience that no one should go through breast cancer alone. The Future Dreams house is a wonderful safe haven for woman going through this incredibly difficult journey. It is invaluable.

vickie magon

I am 36 and was diagnosed 2.5 years ago with breast cancer. My consultant told me about Future Dreams and it has helped me so much. I remember going to Future Dreams for the first time feeling confused, vulnerable and just empty. They helped me and I was surrounded by other women feeling similar too. It was great to learn about other women experience’s and being able to relate which made me feel safe, comfortable and happy. I left that day feeling more confident, happy and relaxed. I started to come to future dreams more often taking part in workshops and yoga. When I finished my cancer treatment I celebrated with a big party and sent Future Dreams pink flowers and donations. I am walking on the catwalk to show that young girls like me we have the confidence, strength and resilience to overcome cancer. This is a new chapter of my life and I’m so excited. 

jalpa patel

I wanted to raise awareness that cancer does not discriminate and can affect anyone regardless of colour/race or age. Future Dreams provides an opportunity to raise money for those affected by cancer and shows no one needs to fight cancer alone. Together we can fight Breast Cancer.

ILANA CORNISH 

I’m 54 years old. Mother of 4 gorgeous children, 3 boys, 1 girl, and a wife to the most beautiful man, inside and out. I have worked in London, as a Mounted Police Officer for 25 years. I’m May 2019, my entire world was turned upside down, after receiving a diagnosis of Breast cancer. As crippling as it was, I found an unfamiliar strength in myself, but if I’m perfectly honest, it was the love and support from my husband Gavin, and kids that got me through the toughest of times. 
 
In 2020, I joined a ‘Breast Mates’ support group through the Met. We were lucky enough to visit Future Dreams house before the grand opening date to the public. As a bare shell with nothing more than paint on the walls, I was overwhelmed by a mixture of warmth , safety, love and support. I knew the house was going to become a very special place to me now and forever more. And it has. To this day, every time I visit the house, I always find myself having a wee cry! It’s my safe place to do it!

katie worth

I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in April 2011 when I was 31 years old. My 2 daughters were babies and I had to undergo intense chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and a mastectomy to treat my aggressive stage 3 cancer and only finished my hormone treatment last year. However, I am now 12 years since I received the diagnosis no one ever wants to hear but I am taking part in the Future Dreams Fashion Show because I want to show anyone that may be in the early stages of a breast cancer diagnosis that there is a happy life for you out there after Breast Cancer and I am proof of this. 

lisa patnik

I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast Cancer in 2018. It’s been a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. A mastectomy followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy followed by more surgery due to being badly burned while having radiotherapy. COVID came and Diep flap surgery had to be put on hold but was finally done in February 2022. This is where they take your own body fat and transplant it to miraculously make a boob. During my treatments I was sent on an Art therapy course ( Mount Vernon Cancer Hospital) I was reluctant at first as I hadn’t painted since I was a child at school. Art and painting is my new way of life now. I’m hooked and am very proud to say my work has been featured in many galleries. I honestly feel that I have been given a gift while on my battle fighting cancer. I’m so excited to be taking part in the Future Dreams fashion show. 4 years ago I participated in the last show while still having treatments. So this year I intend to walk the cat walk and enjoy every second, building my confidence and pushing myself boundaries. A breast cancer diagnosis is learning to live, and except and embrace the  brave new you. So celebrating life is what I intend to do.

jacquELINE phillips

I went through treatment for Stage 3 breast cancer in 2019 and have just been given my third year of all clear in April 2020.  I credit Future Dreams with helping me on my long journey of recovery after treatment. I’m walking in the show in memory of my Mother, Janetta, who died from complications arising from a second recurrence of breast cancer in January 2022. I have just started a new role as Head of Governance at the Institute for Cancer Research, one of the world’s most influential cancer research organisations.

karen engelberg

I am married to Paul, and have a truly amazing, loving and caring family: 3 children, 3 grandsons, a mother and brother and sister. In 2017 I underwent a mastectomy, intense chemotherapy and further treatment. My cancer diagnosis challenged me both mentally and physically, but the love and support I received from my wonderful family and friends, and incredible organisations, enabled me to embrace life with strength, positivity and zest. Future Dreams gives those, who have been touched by a breast cancer diagnoses outstanding support, whether it be physical, mental or aesthetic and I am so proud, and thrilled, to be a part of this fundraiser so that others facing situations similar to mine, can benefit as I did. 

gemma DUFF

I was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2019 aged 36. I am now one of the Secondary Sisters and I wanted to participate in the fashion show to raise awareness of breast cancer in young people (cancer does not discriminate) and to show others living with cancer that we can still feel alive whilst we are living. Future Dreams has allowed us to bring the secondary community together at regular Secondary Sister events and we are so grateful for the support we have all been giving by the charity and everyone at Future Dreams House. 

Amanda turofsky

I was diagnosed with Breast cancer in December 2013. My diagnosis to getting the all clear took nearly a year. Breast cancer gave me the chance to reinvent myself as an artist which has filled my life with joy, creativity, positivity and strength and without it and my family and friends support I could not have moved forward. Since my diagnosis, treatment and recovery, I have met many inspirational people who have been affected by this disease and I hope that by modelling I can inspire others who have been affected by breast cancer.  

FIONA CARRINGTON

I was treated for Breast Cancer whilst living in Asia in 2019, and then moved back to the UK in 2021. I found last year very tough for many reasons and felt like i was just existing.   I made a promise to myself that 2023 was going to be about experiencing new challenges outside of my comfort zone. One of those challenges was being given this wonderful opportunity. 

MARY HUCKLE

I’m a wellness coach and Pilates instructor from London and the founder/owner of Breakthrough Fitness. I am married with 3 children, and have recently become a grandmother. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2007 and with secondaries in July 2014. Despite my own diagnosis she endeavours to raise awareness of the disease, in particular of secondary breast cancer. By sharing my experience and through my patient advocacy, I have helped others in my position and take pride in the fact that for over 15 years I’ve helped dozens of women regain their confidence and fitness during and after cancer treatment. 

Future Dreams has been a place of safety, acknowledgement and comfort for many breast cancer patients, including myself. The dedication of the ladies who work there is truly amazing. The 25th will undoubtedly be an emotional but uplifting day. I hope to raise awareness and funds, so that Future Dreams can carry on their excellent work. 

ANTONY GEE

I am excited to be part of the Future Dreams Fashion Show to help raise awareness and funding for this amazing charity that offers such great support for those who have been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I am doing this especially with thoughts of friends and colleagues who have battled/are battling this illness. My own story is that I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in 2020. Following treatment I now have 6-monthly blood tests to ensure that my PSA levels remain low. I had no symptoms and was fortunate to be diagnosed through a 2-yearly work health check-up so I ask anyone reading this to ask any male relatives or friends aged 50+ to check their PSA level. It only takes a few minutes for a blood test but it could make an enormous difference to your life and that of your family. 

SOPHIE BLAKE

I’m 50 years old and I was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in May 2022 after a primary diagnosis in Dec 2020. I’m a single mum to my wonderful 16 year old daughter Maya. She has helped keep my head and heart stay focused on not living in fear, but living life to it’s absolutely fullest. When I was diagnosed as having stage 4, I found Future Dreams House and it provided a comforting, supportive, safe environment to go, where I meet others in the same situation. Having that connection with others who understood such a life changing diagnosis made a big difference. I have made some wonderful friends there and attended some fantastic events. It’s a great comfort to know that it exists. Taking part in the fashion is so exciting and a fun way to give something back. My only fear is that I’m incredibly clumsy and will fall flat on my face! 

NIKKI TAPPER

I am a breast cancer survivor – I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer when I was 38 years old. I had a mastectomy and underwent chemotherapy. My mum has also survived breast cancer 3 times and has the BRCA2 gene mutation. She has had a double mastectomy and also underwent chemotherapy. Facing a breast cancer diagnosis can be extremely scary and daunting – No one should face Breast Cancer alone and with the best support network around me, my journey was made so much more bearable. Future Dreams has enabled me to meet so many other people who have gone through a similar journey – it’s like a family. For me, taking part in the fashion show is a celebration of not only mine and my mum’s life but also the bravery and courage of every person who has either gone through or is going through a Breast Cancer Diagnosis. 

louise mckenna-mayes

I’m so excited to have been chosen to take part in the Future Dreams Fashion Show taking place on 25th May. I was diagnosed with a grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma with associated high-grade DCIS in my right breast in Sept 2021. 2 x lumpectomy’s, lymph node removal, followed by 16 Cycles of Chemotherapy over a 6 month period then a single Mastectomy (Right SSMx and immediate reconstruction with free DIEP flap) was my final procedure in June 2022 prior to being given the official all clear in Nov 2022.  As part of rebuilding my life after cancer and my husband sadly dying suddenly just 10 weeks prior to my diagnoses I was looking for a Cancer Charity that felt like a home. A safe, happy haven with instant friends, somewhere I could relax, talk about my diagnosis but also focus on doing fun stuff to help build a new me, especially after going through such a traumatic time.  Future Dreams has given this to me in buckets, the facilities and support is a unique offering and I’ve been taking part in a Hypnotherapy Course that teaches/helps you to manage your thoughts, feelings and particularly for me my anxiety around treatments, chemo, surgery and beyond. 

So whilst I’m nervous, I am also 100% excited to take to the stage and strut my stuff to help raise awareness of this incredible charity. 

TONY gibber 

I was diagnosed in June 2017 with Stage IV Melanoma that had metastasized to the brain, both lungs, and in various areas below the diaphragm. My prognosis was pretty bleak and given 3 months to live, but after 3 years of immunotherapy treatment my cancer was under control and I’m currently ‘Stable’. Having experienced a devastating diagnosis like I was given, I know how valuable the work of this charity is and what they are able to offer people going through very difficult and tough times, so please help me to raise money for an amazing cause. It’s honestly so greatly appreciated. 

prital patel 

I was diagnosed with Grade 2 Breast Cancer in June 2021. I wanted to be a part of the fashion show to raise money for a fabulous charity which supports everyone going through breast cancer and beyond. I also wanted my participation to raise awareness that cancer affects all ages, races and cultures. 

jodi marks

I am 35. 10 years ago, at 25, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My son was 5 months old. After being told I would not be able to have children I had my little miracle Millie 18 months ago. I am walking on the catwalk to celebrate 10 years since my chemotherapy ended. I want to walk for future dreams as it’s such a fantastic charity and I am so proud to be part of it. This is a celebration of the strength and resilience of my body and spirit, and of my family’s love and support. It’s also a demonstration of my commitment to future dreams and to raising awareness of the importance of early detection and treatment for breast cancer. 

holly phillips 

I was diagnosed with breast cancer (DCIS, Grade 3) in September 2022, at 28 years old despite no family history. Unfortunately, a second lump was found in the same breast which resulted in a single mastectomy with immediate DIEP reconstruction in November. Since my partner and I have no children, in December we went through IVF to freeze embryos as chemotherapy can cause infertility. Chemotherapy then started in January with my last chemo session on the 10th May. I will hopefully be receiving radiotherapy in June which will end my active treatment. This is a lot of treatment to receive in a sudden short amount of time which can be extremely overwhelming mentally and physically. Without support from incredible charities such a Future Dreams I don’t think I would have been as strong as I have been from diagnosis to treatment. Thanks to future dreams I been able to access the online support hub, attend group and 1-1 nutrition sessions and events at the future dreams house! Being able to visit a house that provides so much support from mental wellbeing to creative workshops is incredible, you feel like you are not alone on this journey or beyond. Taking part in this fashion show has been incredible to meet other strong beautiful women and together raise awareness for this incredible charity that has supported us and made us feel like family!

paul simbler

I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer December 2019. I decided after a lot of heartache & discussion with my wife & my Oncologist to have a Radical Robotic Prostatectomy. I’ve never looked back and now after 3 years have been discharged by my Surgeon. I was asked to be a for the show and obviously had nothing to think about. Although Future Dreams focuses on Breast Cancer, at the end of the day, when you hear the words “you have cancer” something happens & nothing else matters. It’s my absolute pleasure & honour to have been asked. 

Cathy RICKETTS

I’m 52. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Lobular Breast Cancer during my regular annual mammogram in March 2021, in the middle of lockdown. Despite having had a clear mammogram 15 months before, an 8cm tumour showed up on this mammogram. The tumour did not present as a lump rather a thickening of tissue. Hence it was not something I’d felt in my breast, despite its size! 

Being part of this fashion show has been an incredible experience. Firstly, I get to visit the Future Dreams House! Walking into the house for me, feels like walking into a big hug! And just as importantly, I get to spend time with other men and women who have had a diagnosis of primary or secondary breast cancer. Inspiring human beings, fantastic examples of the fact that there is life after a primary or secondary breast cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer has meant that each and every model appearing in this show will have had to reframe their relationship with their bodies. This is not an easy process. This is where Future Dreams and Future Dreams house comes in. Providing vital support that helps us to rebuild our sense of who we are. Future Dreams. Thank you. 

ANDREA CARR

I am 59 years young. Mother of 4 sons. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2020 near the start of the second lockdown.  

I started the new year with 6 months of chemotherapy ahead of me. It was a strange time. I was told to isolate for protection. In any case most places were shut down. I had surgery, radiotherapy and more chemo up until May 2022. Shortly after this I discovered Future Dreams House. I had the chance to meet in person with others who understood what I had been through. The house has helped me on the road to discover my new ‘normal’. I was looking for somewhere I could be myself and this is it. You can laugh or cry out loud here and it’s ok. I am excited to appear in the fashion show to raise awareness of the great work being done here at the charity. 

claire murphy

I’m 50 years old. Diagnosed in 2016 with Grade 2 invasive ductal cancer. Future Dreams has become like family, and by taking part in this fashion show I feel like I am supporting everyone within the Future Dreams family. 

HOWARD SHELDON

Having taken part in the last Future Dreams fashion show, you might think I would be less nervous about this year’s event. Wrong! I am equally terrified. However, with cancer having been part of my life for the last 19 years, it has taught me to live life for today and do all the things I can do while I am able, however daunting they might be. Without any hesitation, I am so happy to support Future Dreams because I know the benefits this amazing organisation brings to so many people in need of a helping hand during challenging times.